Burke County Authorities Searching For Suspect

On Tuesday July 27, at 7:32 p.m. the Burke County Sheriff’s Office responded to 3865 Briar Drive, Valdese, in reference to an assault. When deputies arrived, they found a Hispanic female with multiple lacerations to her face, arms and body being treated by Burke County EMS. The victim’s mother sustained multiple bite injuries during the altercation. The victim identified her boyfriend, Jeffery Jesus Martinez, as the offender. Martinez left the scene wearing a red t-shirt and boxers before Burke EMS and Burke County Sheriff’s Office arrived. Both victims were transported to CHS Morganton for treatment.

It was determined that the assault was the result of an argument between the victim and Martinez. A warrant for arrest was issued for Jeffery Jesus Martinez for assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill and inflicting serious injury. The whereabouts of Martinez are unknown at this time. Martinez should be considered armed and dangerous and should not be approached.

Anyone with any information regarding the whereabouts of Jeffery Jesus Martinez is asked to call the Burke County Sheriff’s Office at 828-438-5500 or Morganton/Burke Crimestoppers at 828-437-3333.

Photo: Burke County Sheriff’s Office